On 23 November 2007, the Preliminary Draw for 2010 took place in Durban. The eyes of the world were glued on the city and KwaZulu-Natal, as we all looked forward three years, to see who will be playing whom at Africa’s first Soccer World Cup.

Based on the figures released by FIFA after the 2006 event, we too like Germany can expect millions of visitors during the 2010 FIFA World Cup in South Africa. The interest is historic and unprecedented; for the first time the football world will watch its main event play out on an African stage.

In our view, 2010 provides us with a great catalyst for our own economic development programmes. It must change the way in which we look at sport: as more than just a game, but as a business itself, and as a facilitator of enterprise for the nation.

In KwaZulu-Natal we want to use this opportunity to reclaim our spot as the Home of Soccer in South Africa. African Wanderers FC was formed in 1906, followed by AmaZulu FC in 1932, making these two clubs the oldest in the country, and KwaZulu-Natal has always been a leading contributor to the national league, international leagues and the national Bafana Bafana squad.

It must not be forgotten, however, among all the sideshows and indirect benefits, that the FIFA World Cup in 2010 will be a soccer event. It therefore follows that if anyone must participate in this event, it must be the soccer players, supporters and administrators, and if anyone is to benefit from it, it must be the football community of South Africa as a whole.

In this regard we have already launched a comprehensive programme that will include the development of facilities in disadvantaged areas, talent searching and providing support for local clubs. We have started initiatives such as the programme to harness the expertise of soccer veterans, as well as a talent searching campaign whereby 280 young players between the ages of 16 and 20 have been identified and are being prepared to join the professional football ranks.

The effect of the World Cup will be felt long after the final whistle is blown in Johannesburg on 11 July 2010. Remaining behind will be the billions of rand in infrastructure development and facilities upgrades, small business development and enterprise development. In the long term, South Africa’s image internationally will be so enhanced that millions of visitors will keep coming back years after the final.

We are also aware that an event such as the World Cup will also increase our own sense of loyalty and patriotism to South Africa. In our view, the 2010 FIFA World Cup therefore gives us one of those rare opportunities to increase the size and activity of our economy but also to unite our people around a common goal.

In KwaZulu-Natal we want to use this opportunity to reclaim our spot as the Home of Soccer in South Africa.

Contact details:

KZN Office of the Premier
Tel: +27 33 341 3342
Fax: +27 33 345 8490
Email: damanezp@premier.kzntl.gov.za